As new communities continue to be added throughout the region, developers are trying to decide which apartment upgrades they need to include to best attract renters, writes Michaelle Bond for The Philadelphia Inquirer.

According to a new survey from the National Multifamily Housing Council and Grace Hill, preferences among renters in the Philadelphia area mostly align with those of renters nationwide.

Among the renters from the Philadelphia metropolitan area who responded to the survey:

• 20 percent had household income ranging $50,001–$75,000
• 22 percent were in the $75,001–$100,000 range
• 20 percent had household incomes of $100,001–$150,000

For apartment amenities, local renters were most interested in washers and dryers in their units and air-conditioning, followed by soundproof walls and high-speed internet access. Other desirable items include dishwashers, microwaves, walk-in closets, garbage disposals, and preinstalled window blinds or shades.

Reliable cellphone reception was also at the top of the list for most of the Philadelphia-area renters.

Regarding other community amenities, renters are willing to pay more for are controlled-access parking, a fitness center, a dog park, and a clubhouse.

Read more about what renters are looking for in apartment upgrades in The Philadelphia Inquirer.